FAQsFAQs

Question

Do I need a Visa to visit?Do I need a Visa to visit?

Answer

As of now, yes!! The rules for travel to Israel have changed. Starting from January 2025, visitors from visa-exempt countries are required to obtain an ETA-IL (Electronic Travel Authorization) to enter the state of Israel. An approved ETA-IL, indicates that you are allowed to travel to Israel and stay for up to 90 days per visit. Link to get all the information for the ETA-IL and the application process: https://israel-entry.piba.gov.il

Question

Do I need to speak Hebrew?Do I need to speak Hebrew?

Answer

No, the beauty of traveling to Israel is that all the signage is in Hebrew, English, and Arabic! And more likely than not, most people speak a little English.

Question

What is the best way to travel in Israel?What is the best way to travel in Israel?

Answer

Inside the City: Bus or light rail will be your cheapest option. You can download the “Moovit” app (no need to pay, if you need a "Tuedat Zehute-and Israeli ID number feel free to reach out privately) where you can enter starting point and destination to see ways of reaching your destination. The app has an English setting. City to City: Train: is fast and has ride between Jerusalem and Tel Aviv every 30 minutes. We will post a schedule the week before and week of wedding for your convenience. Taxi: Gett is the taxi service here in Israel. Download the app and add a card to the account or choose pay with “Cash”. You can order a taxi or wave one down. Don’t trust that he is giving you the best deal when he gives you a price before starting the ride. Always make sure the meter is running, if it isn’t ask him to start it. (Israel does not have Uber) You can use Moovit to pay for your rides or if you would like a RavKav, the physical card to pay for rides, you can purchase one at the airport. There is a RavKav app where you can load and reload your card. We will show instructions to use this app closer to the wedding as well.

Question

Where should we stay?Where should we stay?

Answer

In Israel it is not as common to block out a set of rooms in hotels, and most hotels don't give that option. We suggest booking with Airbnb or hotels in Jerusalem near Yaffo Street, giving you greater access to public transportation such as the light rail and train. If Tel Aviv is more your style, finding a place near HaShalom Train Station, Savidor Train station, or University Train are the best options. If you would rather stay in a hotel we will be posting a suggestion of hotels on February 1st.

Question

Will I need to understand Hebrew to understand the ceremony?Will I need to understand Hebrew to understand the ceremony?

Answer

No, we are trying our best to make sure the ceremony will be bilingual to accommodate all of our guests.

Question

What is a CHUPPAH?What is a CHUPPAH?

Answer

A chuppah is a beautiful canopy under which we will stand under during our wedding ceremony. It symbolizes our new home and the sheltering presence of G-d over our marriage. The chuppah is typically held up by four poles. The open structure of the chuppah also signifies that the our home will be open to friends, family, and community, and that our marriage is part of a larger community and tradition. The chuppah is an important element in Jewish weddings, and standing under it represents the commitment to one another and the home we’ll create together.

Question

What does a wedding in Israel look like?What does a wedding in Israel look like?

Answer

Our wedding will start with a reception before the ceremony. The time on the invitation will be the start of the chuppah ceremony, so make sure to come before to enjoy drinks and appetizers. We’re excited to be there to greet our guests, capture some photos, and share a few moments together before the wedding celebration begins. There will be an announcement before the ceremony to gather around the chuppah. Once everyone is gathered by the chuppah, the ceremony will begin. The processional will feature the groom’s siblings, the brides siblings, the groom’s parents escorting him to the chuppah followed by the bride and parents. The groom will walk out and meet the bride to lead her to the chuppah. Our chuppah ceremony will be shorter than most, because we have already done our Jewish ceremony in Tampa, back in April, 2024. Following the ceremony, everyone crowds the chuppah to wish the bride and groom a mazal tov before heading inside for the celebrations! As you will soon see, an Israeli wedding is all about the party, so come to dance the night away!